Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H3532

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Refer
5/6/24  

Caption

Relative to EMT certification of veterans and military medics

Impact

If enacted, HB 3532 would significantly impact the certification process for EMTs in Massachusetts, particularly for those who are veterans or military medics. The law would involve the Department of Public Health developing standards to assess the alignment of military training with state EMT standards, potentially speeding up and simplifying the certification for those who have served. This recognition could encourage veterans to pursue careers in emergency medical services, thereby contributing positively to public health and safety.

Summary

House Bill 3532 seeks to amend the Massachusetts General Laws to facilitate the certification process for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) specifically for veterans and military medics of the United States Armed Forces. The bill aims to ensure that the education and training requirements that these military personnel have already completed during their service are recognized as substantially equivalent to those required for EMT certification in the state. This initiative addresses the unique skills that veterans possess, enabling them to transition into civilian emergency medical roles more seamlessly.

Contention

While the bill predominantly garners support due to its focus on aiding veterans, there may be concerns regarding the standards set for determining the ‘substantial equivalency’ of military training compared to state requirements. Critics might argue about the rigor of these standards and whether they ensure that all EMT candidates possess sufficient training to perform effectively. There may also be discussions around resource allocation for the Department of Public Health to implement these assessments without straining existing certification processes.

Companion Bills

MA S2359

Similar To Relative to EMT certification of veterans and military medics

Previously Filed As

MA S2359

Relative to EMT certification of veterans and military medics

MA S3500

Streamlines emergency medical technician certification process for certain veterans.

MA A5185

Streamlines emergency medical technician certification process for certain veterans.

MA S969

Streamlines emergency medical technician certification process for certain veterans.

MA A321

Streamlines emergency medical technician certification process for certain veterans.

MA H2126

Relative to the civilian certification of military medical personnel

MA H2365

Relative to the civilian certification of military medical personnel

MA H4671

Honoring, empowering, and recognizing our servicemembers and veterans

MA H4976

Honoring, empowering, and recognizing our servicemembers and veterans

MA S4014

Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.